Women in Mining Nigeria (WIMIN) Lagos Chapter is hosting the maiden edition of the Gold and Gem stone conference and exhibition in Lagos between the 4th and 5th of Nov, here in Lagos in collaboration with its concept partners namely APATA Gems, AC&C Priceless Nig. Ltd and Energy and Mineral Resources Nig. Ltd.
The sole objective of this conference is to promote value addition and encourage participation of more women in the sector through sensitization and awareness to financial institutions, potential investors and government. Lagos is a strategic location with vast economic and financial potentials which if well harnessed could result in the transformation of Lagos to a major Jewellery hub where mineral trading and jewelry making can grow and make significant economic impact.This is part of our efforts geared towards mainstreaming gender in the solid mineral sector in Nigeria.
The nearness of Lagos to the gold rich Osun and part of Ondo state, precious stones from Oyo state and industrial minerals from Ogun state coupled with the Infrastructures in Lagos ie the sea port for bulk evacuation, rail , airport are great advantages to boost our aspirations in addition to Gov Sango-Olu transformational drive to promote diversification and job creation. What he did in the leather sector can be re-created in the mining sector despite mining being in the exclusive list of Federal government. Building the capacities of the younger citizens to engage in value addition will create more employment opportunities without conflict nor breach of the constitution.
The Plenary session shall have professionals from across the sector for valued presentations with attendance cutting across diverse groups. Top government representatives, traditional rulers, financial institutions and WIMIN members are expected to participate in addition to the Exhibition and Private viewing on the 3rd of Nov for a select few to woo them to invest in the sector.The Federal Ministry of Mines and Steel Development, Lagos State Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, Miners Association of Nigeria will be in attendance.
This conference shall address the strategic role of women in the development of the solid mineral sector in Nigeria and shall further examine the investment environment of mining as it affects women , realizing the critical limitations to funding ,how and where to engage as an investor especially in the midstream, side stream or downstream sectors where value addition is important ;reflecting on the opportunities and challenges.
The highlight of the two day event is the design competition where the best jewelry designer shall be selected and walk away with great gifts. Assessment of designs shall be by very reputable jewelry designers, recognition of our sponsors, conferment of awards and induction of WIMIN members from the Lagos State Chapter.
